8 Best Cordless Oscillating Tools of 2023

No one understands the power of an oscillating tool unless they have a flush cut or a close undercut!

That’s when the search begins for these crazy power tools.

Crazy is the operating word here because oscillating tools are crazily versatile. If you begin listing what all you can do with them, midway, you’d start listing all that you can’t! And that’d be a pretty short list.

With a decent OMT (Oscillating Multi-Tool), you can perform some of the finest cuts, scrape, grout, grind, polish, and sand. Is there anything more on your list? Bring it on and perfect your job with an oscillator.

So, before you go for individual grinders and cutters, maybe you should have a look at these 8 best cordless oscillating tools. We have carefully chosen each device, keeping in mind the needs of a passionate hobbyist as well as a professional carpenter.

Without any more delay, let’s get straight to the nitty-gritty!

Best Cordless Oscillating Tools

Here’s the list of the 8 best cordless oscillating tools that will elevate your craftsmanship to new heights.

1. Bosch Multi-X Oscillating Tool – Best for Versatility and Compatibility

The thing about Bosch power tools is they are filled with surprises and innovations at every turn. Just have a look at their sturdy hammer drills, miter saws, or multi-functional workbenches, and you’ll get an idea. The PS50-2B is a slim, cordless tool that reaches the tightest of spaces and matches an array of accessories from different companies.

Let’s see how it fares, considering all its features.

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BOSCH GOP18V-28N 18V EC Brushless StarlockPlus Oscillating...

• STARLOCKPLUS: features the StarlockPlus 3D tool accessory...
• VERSATILITY: offers multi tool versatility by accomplishing...

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Why did we like it? 

The Bosch Multi-X oscillating tool can easily star in one of those 80s posters of ‘getting things done.’ Its versatility depends on the chosen accessory, and once set up with the right ones, it works excellently on hardwoods, grout, softwoods, plastic, and some specific metals. Moreover, its convenient variable speed dial ranges the OPM between 5,000 to 20,000 to suit a whole lot of repair, remodeling, and restoration work.

One feature Bosch always tries to include in most of its oscillating tools is compactness. Well, it’s a must-have feature for such a versatile tool, but the company takes it up a couple of notches by packing several convenient features into one minuscule device such as this. The oscillator easily fits into some of the most critical corners of rooms and workspaces to tackle tasks of high-quality sanding and cutting.

Last but not least, the tool comes with a plastic nose so that there is no mark or scratch on the workpiece or surfaces. Its soft, comfortable grip, along with a battery percentage marker, make this tool the perfect combination of convenience, versatility, and durability.

What could have been better?

Well, everything is fine with the Bosch Multi-X except its battery life. Most users have commented that the juice runs out pretty fast, and with it, the work quality also deteriorates. We hope Bosch tweaks their batteries a bit, as that’d make this model completely flawless.

2. DEWALT 20V Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit – Best for Performance and Convenience

Dewalt is one of our proud candidates in the construction and power tools lists, and there’s at least one of their products hitting the bull’s eye with their top-notch products. The company gained a wide following in recent years owing to the portability and durability of its products; still, Dewalt is much more than that. Check out this 20 V oscillating tool, and you’ll get an idea.

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DEWALT 20V MAX XR Multi-Tool Kit, Oscillating Tool, 6-Speed,...

• The 3-speed selector of DEWALT 20V tools allows users to...
• Brushless motor of DEWALT oscillating tool delivers up to...

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Why did we like it?

We were more than excited when Dewalt sent us this oscillating tool for reviewing, and the very first aspect that first drew our attention was its brushless motor. Well, as expected, these motors make far less noise and last longer, while also delivering up to 57% more runtime over brushed motors. For those who don’t know, the DCS356 is the most premium oscillating tool in the series with some recent upgrades, including a convenient 3-speed selector.

That doesn’t mean there is no variable speed trigger, but the 3-speed selector is there for added convenience. Moreover, we were quite thrilled to find the highest no-load speed reaches 20,000 OPM. Also, it combines with a convenient dual-grip trigger to give you the ultimate speed and control over your workpiece. What’s more, changing the accessories is smooth with its patented QuickChange system, preventing the use of wrenches to change blades and other attachments.

The best part is, the device comes with a universal accessory adapter, so no more running around the market, looking for specific compatible tools.

What could have been better?

While we had no complaint with the base machine, the additional triangular sanding pad has its functionality close to nil because it’s convex and protrudes a great deal in the center. So, anyone used to intricate woodwork would find this piece not very useful. Other than this, everything is perfect with this multi-tool kit.

3. Bosch GOP18V-28N Oscillating Multi-Tool – Best for Precision and Longevity

If the previous oscillating tool from Bosch had its juice run out pretty quickly, this 18 V little bird is a master of precision and longevity. While there are very few brands that can compete with Bosch’s durability, the constant upgrading of its features takes the products to a whole new level of convenience.

So, let’s see how the GOP18V-28N model fares with the long tradition of the company’s top-notch products.

Sale

BOSCH GOP18V-28N 18V EC Brushless StarlockPlus Oscillating...

• STARLOCKPLUS: features the StarlockPlus 3D tool accessory...
• VERSATILITY: offers multi tool versatility by accomplishing...

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Why did we like it?

We’d like to begin by saying that this oscillating multi-tool has kept up with all the rigorous standards of Bosch and has done a great job with them. We say this because, like the pioneer Fein model, this one also comes with the StarLock mount, and all spare parts or added accessories of this company are compatible with the oscillating tool. 

Not to forget, the StarLock 3D tool accessory interface provides superior grip as well as more significant torque transfer. More torque means more versatility in case of oscillating tools, and apart from sanding, grinding, and plunge cutting, the 28N model, is also a master at plunge and flush cutting.

And to top it all, this power tool comes with a smooth brushless motor whose oscillating angle is 2.8 degrees, which gives you an optimum cut with a fast and smooth finish. Furthermore, a variable speed ranging from 8,000 – 20,000 OPM combines with a mere weight of 2.7 lbs to enhance the convenience quotient of this device. 

What could have been better?

We didn’t find any functional difficulty with the device, but there’s a pinched wire issue that many users have faced. The red wire near the battery seems pinched and protrudes out of the section where you put the battery. If you find this to be the problem in your case as well, order a replacement immediately.

4. Makita XMT03Z Cordless Multi-Tool

If the pinched wire issue was a turnoff for you, we have another handsome oscillating multi-tool from Makita. The XMT03Z has become a handy tool for professionals and DIYers alike because it takes a little bit of something from all the famous brands, and then some more.

Makita products are one of those must-have products which come with trust and guarantee in their design, as well as a struggle for constant improvisation. Let’s see how.

Makita XMT03Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Cordless Multi-Tool,...

• Variable speed control dial (6,000-20,000 OPM) enables user...
• 3.2° oscillation angle engineered for faster, more...

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Why did we like it?

The first impression of this multi-tool is that it’s quite large. But that doesn’t mean it can’t reach tight spaces, it surely can! The fact that it’s a bit larger (although less than the Bosch GOP18V-28N) takes a bit of time to get used to, but its barreled grip makes up for the cumbersome size. And as we mentioned, it takes something from every famous OMT, Makita borrows the flip-top tool-less blade change lever and pin from Fein.

Although you need to be careful while changing the blades, the fact that it doesn’t take a wrench to do the job is an added convenience and saves you a whole lot of time. Moreover, the device runs off of 3 Ah batteries giving a robust runtime of 30 minutes, and with 6 variable speeds, the OPM range varies between 6,000 – 20,000. 

Talking about performance, this OMT delivers top-notch performance in a whole array of different jobs such as cutting 16d nails, plunge cutting plywood, beaming construction material, and even notching old hardwood. 

We believe it’s the 3.2 degrees (L/R) oscillating angle that enhances the versatility of the device alongside the brushless motor that runs at a hum of a mere 68 dB. The quiet motor adds to the longevity of the OMT and the smoothness of the performed tasks.

What could have been better?

Well, as mentioned right at the beginning, the tool is quite bulky compared to other models. Although the barreled grip style compensates a bit, there’s only so much it can do to nullify the entire weight of the OMT. But if you’re looking at large-scale operations, this model from Makita would perform exceptionally well with its brushless motor.

Avid Power is one of those young brands, which is gaining a lot of following because of their perfect mixture of convenience and high performance. This 3.5-amp OMT drew our attention with its attractive red/black color scheme, but as we dug deep, we found this is a wonderful mid-range tool packed in a large tool bag with loads of other accessories.

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AVID POWER Oscillating Tool, 3.5-Amp Oscillating Multi Tool...

• More Efficient Work - 4.5 degrees of oscillation angle makes...
• Quick-Change Accessory System - The locking level allows...

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Why did we like it?

To start with convenience, let us tell you both Avid Power drill sets and OMTs are universally compatible with bits, blades, and sanders of all the major companies. So, you can easily fit a Makita blade with this OMT and finish that pending polishing task with ease. Moreover, controlling the 6 adjustable speeds gets so convenient with the comfortable dial, and the 15,000 – 20,000 OPM range fits a lot of metal scraping tasks that require high but controlled speeds.

One trailblazing feature that sets this product apart is its large oscillating angle of 4.5 degrees. This means significantly less time to finish any task of woodcutting or metal tubes. With more angular space, the work gets more efficient as the blades can touch a lot of surface area of the workpiece. 

And the Quick-Change accessory system comprises a locking level that easily detaches the set pieces without the help of a wrench, and this inclusion makes it a perfect home renovation assistant. Add to that an ergonomic design as well as a large assortment of blades, brushes, and sanding papers; you have got a versatile home tool to fix anything amiss.

What could have been better?

The half-round blade has a problem of getting misshapen after a short period of use. Also, some users have commented that with time they get jammed in the accessory slot, making it all the more difficult to remove. But except for the small half-round blade, we do not have much to complain about this device.

6. CRAFTSMAN V20 Oscillating Tool Cordless Kit

A multi-tools list without any Craftsman product is a list that’s not yet complete. It is a proud innovator of some trailblazing models in the field of construction and power tools. The best part about this company is it has something for everyone, be it the professionals who know what they’re looking for, or the amateurs just dipping their toes in the field. That’s why we chose this medium-range OMT for casual hobbyists and passionate DIYers.

Sale

CRAFTSMAN V20* Oscillating Tool Cordless Kit (CMCE500D1)

• Part of the V20 cordless system
• Oscillating tool with variable speed from 8K to 18K opm's...

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Why did we like it?

Frankly, this seems more like a bridge product than something that’s designed for first-timers. We claim this because its motor belongs to the patented V20 cordless series of Craftsman, so you can rest assured of its top-notch performance. 

Talking about performance, its variable speed technology ranges between 8,000 – 18,000 OPM, giving you optimal control over all kinds of grinding, polishing, and sanding tasks.

So, apart from delivering high-quality performance, this OMT is also quite versatile. The multi-tool kit of this product further enhances it with a package of 14 tool pieces, including sanding plates, wood blades, a bi-metal blade, and 3 kinds of sandpaper. 

Like most other tools on this list, Craftsman has also included a tool-free universal attachment system that allows quick accessory change without any help from other devices. Finally, its comfortable contoured over-molded handle and an LED light help you reach tight spaces irrespective of light and spatial conditions. With Craftsman, you have your jobs covered!

What could have been better?

Although powered by a lithium-ion battery, its juice seems to run out fast. This is the only reason we couldn’t call it a professional’s choice as job sites demand powerful beasts that can last an entire day of rigorous work. This fact made the product lose 2 stars, but if you can live with short battery life, don’t miss this OMT.

7. Rockwell RK5132K Oscillating Multi-Tool

How to miss the legacy of Rockwell when we are discussing multi-construction and power tools? We have included 2 Rockwell OMTs in the list, and each has some specific USPs that we couldn’t ignore. And if you’re apprehensive about the company, let us tell you it’s the one-stop shop for everything related to homemaking, indoor or outdoor.

Sale

Rockwell RK5132K 3.5 Amp Sonicrafter F30 Oscillating...

• Rockwell Sonicrafter F30 3.5 Amp Oscillating Tool with 32...
• Hyperlock with unmatched 1-ton of holding force means blades...

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Why did we like it?

Frankly, what impressed us the most about this 3.5-amp OMT is its mammoth assortment of the toolset that includes 32 pieces of wood cutting blades, semi-circular blades, and over 25 kinds of sanding papers. So, no more stumbling across shops for any intricate home renovation task. The Sonicrafter F30 comes with 4 degrees of oscillation, which makes space for fast cutting as well as smooth control. But it doesn’t end here!

All the usual features that you’d find in a top-notch OMT are there in these remarkable models of Rockwell. The tool-free blade change system has cranked up with a hyper lock facility, that provides 1 ton of clamping force. So, you can rest assured that every single accessory remains tightly attached to the tool to give you the best performance with the least hindrance.

Moreover, its universal fit system, ergonomic grip, and constant speed control with the comfortable dial combine to give you a remarkable output every time. Also, with a 3-year product warranty, you will always get an unrivaled performance in comparison to its competitors. Thus, a must-buy!

What could have been better?

Everything was going great with this OMT until we stumbled upon many reviews talking about the low quality of some of the sanding papers. Also, it seems Rockwell has tried to make a comprehensive kit but didn’t care to include tools for grout removal and rasping. That was pretty upsetting.

8. Milwaukee 2426-20 M12 Multi-tool

The ever-expanding lineup of the M12 series has the powerful 2426-20 model, which we believe is going to satisfy all your home renovation as well as a lot of job site demands. And apart from this particular product, Milwaukee needs no introduction beyond its reputation of packing the most optimum features in the minimum space and price.

Milwaukee 2426-20 M12 12 Volt Redlithium Ion 20,000 OPM...

• UNIVERSAL ADAPTOR: You can use accessories from other multi...
• 12 SPEED SETTINGS: Switch between 5,000 and 20,000 orbits...

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Why did we like it?

With over 20 different tools in the M12 lineup, an oscillating multi-tool was quite inevitable. So, let’s start with the first look and feel of it. The OMT comes in a sleek and slim design, sporting a cool red/black color scheme, simple curves, and an over-molded rubber grip throughout the tool. It has a perfect weight/length ratio and doesn’t weigh on your hands.

Moving on to its features, we were quite excited to find this OMT has 12 different variable speeds, while most multi-tools rise to 6. You can switch between 5,000 to 20,000 OPM, and a more significant number of stops means more versatility since we could gear up the tool to the exact speed. It shows its wonder during intricate sanding jobs as well as woodwork.

Also, talking about sanding, the device comes with separate sanding and grouting heads, which are experts in getting into tight spaces. And its powerful 3rd gen Red Lithium battery gives a reliable runtime of 15 minutes, so you need not worry about a shortage of power anymore. With careful power expenditure, the device will last you through 3 sanding jobs with ease.

What could have been better?

Sadly, this top-notch model has a consistent problem of overheating. It takes 10 – 15 seconds to start the device with the switch, so overheating becomes inevitable. It’s a pretty unexpected blotch on a Milwaukee product, and we hope they fix it in the future.

Best Cordless Oscillating Tool Comparison Table

Buying Guide For The Best Cordless Oscillating Tool

So, are you just dipping your toes into tool shopping and also an enthusiast DIY’er? Well, we love those people who wanna do everything on their own, starting from shopping for the required tools to the end of the desired project. But however much we are proud of you, we’re also skeptical about the wrong tools you might bring home, getting sucked in by the fancy gimmicks.

Therefore, we have also given a detailed buyer’s guide so that you know which one’s the worthiest device to throw the money on. Hop in!

To get cords or cordless, that is the question!

Ask yourself this simple question, and then we’ll get into the details: do you favor portability over power, or is it the other way around? Well, depending on the project type and workspace, you gotta decide on this question. For cordless models, you need to find devices that have a longer battery life, but they have the disadvantage of less power (max 22,000 OPM) if you wanna stay within a decent budget.

And if you want more power, then you need to choose from some of the corded models. There are lots of high-power options if you need an oscillator for a professional job site. So, choose wisely!

OPM

By now, you must be quite familiar with this term, which expands to Oscillations Per Minute. And frankly, the more, the merrier! But it’s even better to go for a model that has a broader range of OPM rather than merely having an OMT of ridiculously high speed. We say this because, with a wide range, the tool becomes significantly more versatile, as is evident with the tools that we discussed here. 

Let’s say, an OMT that ranges between 15,000 – 22,000 OPM will score lower in terms of versatility than the one ranging between 5,000 – 15,000. With the latter, one can perform a varied amount of tasks, starting from the heavy-duty ones to the most intricate woodwork. Get the difference?

Brushed/Brushless

It again depends on the set priorities, but we prefer the smooth functioning of brushless motors any day. The only downside of brushless motors is they usually are less durable than brushed motors as friction and dust wear out the soft brush material.

And out there in a professional job site, there’s only so much one can do to prevent any random particle from entering their device. But if you’re looking at simple home renovation projects and repairs, don’t settle for anything other than brushless motors. With it, you can do all your projects throughout the day, save that annoying noise of brushed OMTs. 

Moreover, with proper maintenance and regular status check of the motor, brushless motors will last you for years.

Universal Fittings of Accessories

We saved one of the most important criteria to look for the last, just so that you don’t forget! And out there in the market, no one is honest enough to remind you of this feature, just to increase their profit margins. But yeah, this IS important as it’s not a very happy task to run around looking for the perfect bits and pieces that would fit your oscillator.

Therefore, never settle for anything less than the Universal Fit System. Most of the models listed here come with this feature because the hassle on the other end is enormous, tremendous, and all other adjectives one can conjure! So, there.

Conclusion

We truly appreciate you taking the time to explore our informative and comprehensive article on the best cordless oscillating tools. It’s exciting to see so many incredible options available, making it easier for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike to perform their tasks with precision and ease.

Our goal is to make your selection process simpler by presenting you with the most suitable tools based on a variety of factors.

For those seeking the perfect balance of versatility and compatibility, the Bosch Multi-X Oscillating Tool is an ideal option. This compact and highly adaptable tool can easily be paired with a wide array of accessories from different companies, making it a practical and valuable addition to any toolbox.

If performance and convenience are your top priorities, the DEWALT 20V MAX XR Oscillating Multi-Tool Kit is a good choice. With its efficient brushless motor, convenient 3-speed selector, and universal accessory adapter, this powerful tool ensures effortless operation and adaptability in various applications.

Lastly, if precision and longevity hold the greatest importance for you, the Bosch 18-Volt GOP18V-28N Oscillating Multi-Tool is the right choice. With its compatibility with StarLock accessories and impressive variable speed capabilities, this lightweight tool delivers unmatched accuracy and durability under even the most demanding conditions.

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